Monday, February 9, 2026

Murray River councils urge region to respond to basin plan discussion paper

Group Chairperson and Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor, Stuart King.

The Murray River Group of Councils is calling on communities, landholders, businesses and industry stakeholders to have their say on the 2026 Murray-Darling Basin Plan Review, Discussion Paper, which was released by the Murray Darling Basin Authority yesterday.

Group Chairperson and Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor, Stuart King said the review marked a critical moment for the future of the Murray-Darling Basin – a system that underpins the environment, agriculture, towns and regional economies.

The decisions made through this process will shape water management across the Basin for decades to come, said Cr King.

“The Murray River Group of Council’s recognises the importance of achieving a balanced approach that protects the health of the river while also sustaining vibrant communities and productive industries that rely on it every day,” he said.

“We are strongly encouraging everyone with an interest in the Basin – from irrigators and environmental groups to tourism operators and residents – to read the review and lodge a submission.

“Local knowledge matters. The lived experience of Basin communities provides essential insight into how water policy works on the ground and helps ensure future decisions are practical, fair and sustainable.”

Submissions are now open until 1 May. Resources and details on how to make a submission are available at the official Basin Plan Review consultation webpage here.

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